Regular lock maintenance prevents sticky locks, key breakage, and premature lock failure. A few minutes of care each year can extend the life of your locks significantly and keep them operating smoothly.
Lubrication
Proper lubrication is the most important maintenance task:
What to Use
- Dry graphite: Best for most pin tumbler locks - clean and does not attract dirt
- Silicone-based spray: Good alternative to graphite
- Teflon-based lubricants: Work well and stay dry
What NOT to Use
- WD-40: Not a lubricant - it actually dries out over time
- Oil-based products: Attract dust and can gum up the mechanism
- Cooking oils: Go rancid and attract dirt
How to Lubricate
- Apply lubricant to your key
- Insert and remove the key several times
- Work the lock mechanism back and forth
- Wipe away any excess
Lubricate locks once or twice a year, or whenever they start to feel sticky.
Cleaning
Keep your locks free from dirt and debris:
- Use compressed air to blow out dust from the keyway
- Wipe the exterior of locks with a damp cloth
- For exterior locks, clean weatherstripping around the door
- Remove any buildup around the bolt and strike plate
Key Care
Your keys affect lock longevity:
- Replace worn keys before they break inside the lock
- Do not use keys that are bent or damaged
- Avoid using keys to pry or scrape things
- Get quality key copies from a professional locksmith
Door and Frame Alignment
Misalignment causes wear:
- Check that the bolt extends smoothly into the strike plate
- Adjust strike plate if needed to eliminate binding
- Tighten loose hinges that cause the door to sag
- Address any gaps between the door and frame
When to Call a Professional
Some issues require a locksmith:
- Locks that are difficult to turn even after lubrication
- Keys that stick or will not come out
- Bolt that does not extend or retract fully
- Visible damage or rust on the lock
- Broken key stuck inside the lock
